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COVID-19

Coronavirus (or SARS-CoV-2) is a 2019 identified infectious disease. It is currently an ongoing global pandemic that has affected thousands of individuals either directly or indirectly. It's main form of transmission is through respiratory droplets such as coughing or sneezing in close proximity to another person. Studies have shown that large crowds and certain environments can increase the risk of contracting the virus. Locations like movie theaters, restaurants, and concert venues are all examples of high risk areas. These locations are indoors and often poorly ventilated, which allows the virus to freely travel in the air. Much needed information is yet to be collected. However, we now know how to identify symptoms and practices for the prevention of spreading.

Common symptoms include dry cough, fever, respiratory issues, and tiredness.

The image shows SARS-CoV2 (or Coronavirus) under a microscope. The notable (green) spikes on the outer edge can be identified as the proteins.

Many individuals may be infected and simultaneously be asymptomatic. This means an unaware individual may be spreading and making it difficult to track the virus among the public. A recent study done at Duke University indicated that children from ages 6 to 13 tested positive for COVID-19, but were asymptomatic. This is why there is an emphasis for people to wear masks when they are in public or social gatherings. The mask is essentially protecting others from people who may be infected but do not show the common symptoms.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent infection. Hospitals are only equipped to relive symptoms and ensure people are properly isolated if infected.

Prevention

There are a variety of guidelines to follow in order to prevent coronavirus from spreading. Wash hands and avoid touching the eyes or mouth. Wear a mask when in public and practice social distancing appropriately. Stay home away from the public if feeling ill. Get tested if exposed to the virus.

Ebola

Ebola Virus (or Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever) infects wild animals, which eventually transmits to humans. Wild animals like bats and monkeys (or other primates). Infection between humans is from person to person through direct physical contact. Ebola was first discovered in 1976 with two major outbreaks in Central Africa. For many years the virus has persisted in the country, which is now facing the impact of two viruses. South Africa, is the region with the highest amount of reported cases with 38,219 cases and 780 deaths.

An overview of Ebola outbreaks in West Africa (2014).

Common symptoms include vomiting, fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and muscle aches.

Lessons learned from previous outbreaks can be useful when handling (or approaching) a new outbreak. The lessons include but not limited to improving resources, rapid testing, and data sharing. Rapid testing can speed the process of identifying those that are infected and prevent them from infecting others. Data sharing allows investigators to confirm studies and improve those very same findings.

Prevention

Avoid traveling to areas where outbreaks are present at the time. Avoid consuming wild animals (noted above).

Differences

A major difference between the viruses is that COVID-19 is airborne, while Ebola is not airborne infection. Coronavirus is deadlier in the long term, which is due to failure in prevention of the spreading. Contracting Ebola virus is less common compared to Coronavirus.

Impact

The impact for both viruses (globally and locally) are extremely negative and life threatening. The damage may drastically decrease populations as the viruses advance within communities.

The history with both viruses can serve as a learning experience for future outbreaks.